Battle Scarred on Forces TV

Documentary series from the Emmy-winning journalist Chris Terrill reporting on the world of the ex-servicemen. Each year up to 20,000 military personnel leave the armed forces. For most, the return to civilian life is straightforward. But for others it is completely overwhelming and for those stressed by combat, it can be traumatic.

Episode 1: Soldiers Behind Bars

First seen on Forces TV on 30th July 2014

Chris Terrill meets a number of ex-servicemen guilty of serious violent crimes. Military veterans now constitute the largest occupational group in the British prison system. Travelling to two of Scotland's most notorious prisons, HMP Shotts and YOI Polmont, Chris talks to a number of inmates from the Forces.

First, Chris meets Darren, an 18-year-old who joined the army to escape Glasgow's gang culture. He became an army boxing champion, but he's now serving three years for putting someone in a coma after a fight.

Chris also meets Mickey, who became depressed after leaving the army, but he felt unable to ask anyone for help and is now serving 18 years for shooting a passenger in his car. He also talks to Tom who was drawn into a drinking culture in the army, but left when he became an alcoholic. Tom's life fell apart and he ended up seriously injuring the mother of his children.

Finally, Chris talks to Keith, serving life for killing his drinking partner. While in prison Keith discovered an extraordinary talent for painting and is able to express his guilt and remorse through his art. By coincidence, Keith also discovered a former colleague from the army is also at the prison... 

Episode 2: Exit Wounds

First seen on Forces TV on 6th August 2014

In this episode, Chris follows Liam, Rich and Simon who all have one thing in common - they suffer with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) brought on by their experiences of life on the front line. 

Dealing with guilt and low self-esteem, and suffering from combat stress, these men share with Chris their innermost fears about life outside the army. 

Episode 3: Nightmare on Civvy Street

First seen on Forces TV on 13th August 2014

Chris reports on the ex-serviceman who fail to adapt to Civvy Street, exploring their fears and the nature of the demons that torment them. 

Why do some former soldiers continue to exist in a state of hyper-vigilance, where everything and everyone around them is a potential threat? 

Rudi has been a civilian for 32 years, but as he walks down the street he cannot shake off the feeling of being back on patrol in Northern Ireland.

Episode 4: Soldiering On

First seen on Forces TV on 20th August 2014

Chris goes to Newcastle where he meets John Hall, DFC, a 92-year-old former Lancaster Bomber tail gunner who lost his best friend Hank in 1943 when they were shot down during a bombing raid. 

Chris joins John on a trip to the Netherlands, where research reveals Hank was buried after his body washed ashore.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in the series please see below for charities you can contact...